Apparatus and method for positioning dental arch to dental articulator

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for receiving a model of a dental arch of a patient is provided. The apparatus comprises a generally U-shaped base portion and at least three spaced-apart radio-opaque members secured to the base. An extension may project from the base portion and may include a fourth radio-opaque member secured to the extension. The apparatus also includes means for securing the apparatus to a mounting surface. Also provided is a positioning apparatus and method for enabling use of the model-receiving apparatus to position the dental arch model within a dental articulator to simulate the position of the dental arch in a skull. The positioning apparatus includes a first member, a second slidable with respect to the first member and a third member slidable with respect to the second member. One or more adjustment members and a locating member are provided on the second and third members and are positionally adjustable with respect to surfaces of the second and third members to impart an orientation to a mounting surface representative of a plane in which a dental arch of a patient lies. A method for securing the positioning apparatus in a dental articulator is also provided.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/417,600 filed Oct. 9, 2002.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to dental articulators and more particularly to apparatuses and methods for positioning and securing a model of a dental arch within a dental articulator.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] In the drawings illustrating embodiments of the present invention:

[0004]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the maxillary matrix tray of the present invention;

[0005]FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the positioning apparatus of the present invention;

[0006]FIG. 3 is a side view of the positioning apparatus of FIG. 2;

[0007]FIG. 4 is an end view of the positioning apparatus of FIG. 2;

[0008]FIG. 5 is a top view of the positioning apparatus of FIG. 2;

[0009]FIG. 7 is a side view of an indicator mechanism for measuring positional differences between portions of the apparatus of FIG. 2;

[0010] FIGS. 8-11 are side views of the positioning apparatus of FIG. 2 mounted on the indicator mechanism of FIG. 7;

[0011]FIG. 12 is a cutaway edge view of the maxillary matrix tray of FIG. 1;

[0012] FIGS. 13A-13H are partial cutaway views of the maxillary matrix tray of FIG. 1 showing various embodiments for securing a radio-opaque member to the tray;

[0013]FIG. 14 is an end view of an engagement member of the present invention;

[0014]FIG. 15 is a bottom view of an engagement member of FIG. 14;

[0015]FIG. 16 is a side view of a dental articulator assembly for receiving therein the positioning apparatus of FIG. 2;

[0016]FIG. 17 is a side view of the positioning apparatus of FIG. 2 mounted in the dental articulator of FIG. 16 showing securement of a maxillary arch model to the articulator;

[0017]FIG. 18 is a side view of the articulator of FIG. 2 showing the articulator opened to permit removal of the positioning apparatus;

[0018]FIG. 19 is a side view of the articulator of FIG. 16 showing both the maxillary and mandibular arch models mounted in the articulator in a first orientation; and

[0019]FIG. 20 is a side view of the articulator of FIG. 16 showing both the maxillary and mandibular arch models mounted in the articulator in a second orientation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020]FIGS. 1 and 12 show a maxillary matrix tray 20 for receiving an impression of an upper dental arch. Maxillary matrix tray 20 generally comprises a base 22 having an axis of symmetry A. Base 22 defines a generally U-shaped portion 24 for receiving a dental arch of a patient. U-shaped portion 24 includes two spaced-apart wing portions 26, 28. Base 22 also has a first face 30 defining a first plane 32 and a second face 34 opposite first face 30 defining a second plane 36. Base 22 may be formed from a plastic material.

[0021] As seen in FIGS. 1 and 12, a wall 38 extends from an edge of base 22 at an angle with respect to first plane 32 of base 22, base 22 and wall 38 combining to form a receptacle, generally designated 40. A plurality of generally evenly-spaced holes 42 may be formed along wall 38.

[0022] In one embodiment, a tongue portion 44 projects from base 22 opposite a junction of wing portions 26, 28. Tongue portion 44 is generally planar and may include a wall 46 extending from an edge thereof with respect to a plane defined by an extension of first face 30. Tongue portion 44 and wall 46 combine to form a second receptacle 48 contiguous with receptacle 40 formed by base 22 and wall 38 extending from base 22. The structure defined by tongue portion 44 and wall 46 is used to grip and manipulate maxillary matrix tray 20 without the need to grasp the portion of the apparatus that is inserted into the mouth of a patient.

[0023] Maxillary matrix tray 20 may also include an extension, generally designated 50, projecting from U-shaped portion 24. Extension 50 may include a portion 52 connecting spaced-apart wing portions 26, 28 and having a first face 54 defining a first plane 201 and a second face 56 opposite first face 54 defining a second plane 202. Extension 50 may be formed integral with base 22 and may also be formed from a plastic material.

[0024] Referring to FIG. 1, three radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62 are secured to base 22. At least two of the radio-opaque members (for example 58 and 60) are spaced apart at a pre-determined distance from one another. In one embodiment, the position of radio-opaque member 60 with respect to radio-opaque member 58 is determined by specifying an axis M extending through wing portion 26 parallel to axis of symmetry A and spaced apart a first pre-determined distance B from axis A. Another axis N is then specified extending through radio-opaque member 58 perpendicular to axis A. A third axis P is also specified which is both perpendicular to axis A and spaced apart a second pre-determined distance H from axis N. The location of radio-opaque member 60 is then determined by the intersection of axes N and P. In the embodiment shown, first pre-determined distance B is equal to approximately 20 mm and pre-determined distance H is approximately 50 mm.

[0025] Radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62 may be formed from a metallic substance or from any substance sufficiently resistant to penetration by X-rays so as to be clearly visible on an exposed diagnostic X-ray film. Radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62 may be spherical or may be formed in any one of a variety of shapes according to space constraints and/or diagnostic process requirements.

[0026] Referring to FIG. 1, in one embodiment of the invention, a first radio-opaque member 58 is secured to and positioned on base 22 approximately along axis of symmetry A, and a second radio-opaque member 60 is secured to and positioned within a first wing portion 26 and spaced apart from axis of symmetry A. A third radio-opaque member 62 may be positioned in a second wing portion 28 and spaced apart from axis of symmetry A on an opposite side of axis A from radio-opaque member 60. In addition, second radio-opaque member 60 and third radio-opaque member 62 may be spaced a substantially equal distance from axis of symmetry A. Second radio-opaque member 60 and third radio-opaque member 62 may also be spaced a substantially equal distance from first radio-opaque member 58.

[0027] Radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62 may be secured to base 22 along either first face 30 or second face 34 using any one of a variety of methods. For example, if base 22 is formed from a plastic material, the radio-opaque members may be molded or press-fit into base 22. Radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62 may alternatively be secured to base 22 using an adhesive.

[0028] If base 22 includes an extension 50, another radio-opaque member 64 may also be secured to extension connecting portion 52. Radio-opaque member 64 secured to extension connecting portion 52 is generally positioned closer to one of wing portions 26, 28 than to the remaining wing portion. Radio-opaque member 64 may be secured to connecting portion 52 along either first face 54 or second face 56 of connecting portion 52 using any one of a variety of methods. For example, if connecting portion 52 is formed from a plastic material, radio-opaque member 64 may be molded or press-fit into connecting portion 52. Alternatively, radio-opaque member 64 may be secured to connecting portion 52 using an adhesive.

[0029] The maxillary matrix tray of the present invention also includes means for securing the tray to a mounting surface of a mounting member. FIG. 2 shows an example of a mounting member 66 on which maxillary matrix tray 20 may be mounted for diagnostic purposes in a manner to be discussed in detail later. In this embodiment, mounting member 66 comprises a flat plate having a mounting surface 68 and a positioning surface 70 opposite mounting surface 66. Mounting surface 68 includes at least one cavity 210 formed for receiving therein a complementary projection extending from maxillary matrix tray 20, and positioning surface 70 includes at least one cavity 72 for receiving therein a portion of a mounting surface adjustment member 118, in a manner to be described in detail later.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 12, the means for securing maxillary matrix tray 20 to mounting surface 68 shown in FIG. 2 comprises a projection, generally designated 74, extending from second plane 36 defined by second face 34 of base 22. Projection 74 may be a feature formed integral with base 22. Alternatively, projection 74 may be formed a separate feature attached to base 22 after the base is formed.

[0031]FIGS. 12 and 13A-13H show examples of how projection 74 may be formed in maxillary matrix tray 20 and examples of possible relationships between one of radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62 and projection 74. In the examples that follow, projection 74 represents any one of several possible projections extending from pre-determined locations along second plane 36 for insertion into corresponding cavities in mounting surface 68.

[0032] As seen in FIG. 13F, projection 74 may be offset from one of radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62 by a pre-determined distance G. As seen in FIG. 13E, projection 74 may alternatively be positioned opposite one of radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62 such that the location of projection 74 corresponds to the location of one of radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62, and vice versa.

[0033] In addition, as seen in FIGS. 13A-D, projection 74 may be formed in any one of a variety of ways by one of the radio-opaque members secured to the base. For example, as seen in FIGS. 13B and 13C, a radio-opaque member 58, 60, 62 may be molded or press fit into base 22 forming a nodule 74 extending from second plane 36 of base 22. Referring to FIGS. 13A and 13D, one of radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62 may alternatively be secured to base 22 so as to project from second plane 36.

[0034] In an alternative embodiment shown in FIGS. 13G-H, maxillary matrix tray 20 may include a cavity 200 formed along second face 34 for receiving therein a complimentary projection extending from mounting surface 68. As seen in FIG. 13G, cavity 200 may be offset from one of radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62 by a pre-determined amount. Alternatively, as seen in FIG. 13H, cavity 200 may be positioned opposite one of radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62 such that the location of cavity 200 corresponds to the location of one of radio-opaque members 58, 60, 62, and vice versa.

[0035] A positioning apparatus for use in positioning a model of a dental arch will now be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 4-7.

[0036]FIG. 2 shows a positioning apparatus, generally designated 80, for use in positioning a model of a dental arch (not shown) within a dental articulator to simulate the position of the dental arch in a skull. In a first embodiment, positioning apparatus 80 includes a first member 84, a second member 86 operatively associated with first member 84, and a third member 88 operatively associated with second member 86. As seen in FIG. 2, in one embodiment, first member 84, second member 86 and third member 88 are each formed from metal plates. The metal plates comprising first member 84, second member 86 and third member 88 are suitably machined and finished such that they interlock and may slide easily with respect to each other when in contact with each other.

[0037] As stated above, second member 86 is slidingly mounted on first member 84 and is positionable with respect to first member 84 along first axis C. Referring to FIG. 2, a dovetail-shaped tongue 90 formed in first member 84 is slidingly received within a correspondingly shaped groove formed in second member 86, simultaneously securing second member 86 to first member 84 and enabling second member 86 to slide with respect to first member 84 along axis C. A reference indicator mark 92 is formed on a surface of first member 84. A series of coordinate indicator marks 104 is provided along an edge of second member 86 adjacent indicator mark 92 of first member 84. Second member 86 may be positioned with respect to first member 84 in correspondence with a pre-determined set of coordinate values by aligning reference indicator mark 92 with a corresponding one of coordinate indicator marks 104, in a manner to be described in detail later.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 5, a locking member may be provided to lock first member 84 and second member 86 in a desired relationship. In one embodiment, the locking member is shown in the form of a set screw 98 mounted in a tapped through hole (not shown) which extends through second member 86 to first member 84. Screw 98 includes a knob 100 for grasping by a user. When first member 84 and second member 86 are positioned in the desired relationship, knob 100 is turned by a user to advance screw 98 into the tapped hole until an end 102 of screw 98 presses against first member 84, securing second member 86 with respect to first member 84. In the embodiment shown, locking member screw 98 is attached to second member 86. Alternatively, locking member screw 98 may be attached to first member 82. Referring to FIG. 2, second member 86 may include an arcuate slot 106 for receiving third member 88 in a sliding relationship therein. Third member 88 has a generally arcuate configuration and is slidingly received within arcuate slot 106 on second member 86. As the arc formed by slot 106 is centered about second axis E, when sliding within slot 106 third member 86 is positionable about second axis E, which is generally perpendicular to first axis C. A locking member in the form of a set screw 114 may be used to secure third member 88 in a pre-determined relationship with respect to second member 86. In the embodiment shown, locking member screw 114 is attached to third member 88. Alternatively, locking member screw 114 may be attached to second member 86. In addition, it is understood that other suitable means may be employed to secure the various members of the positioning apparatus in position with respect to each other. A reference mark 116 is provided along a surface of third member 88 and a series of coordinate indicator marks 110 is provided along an edge of second member 86 adjacent indicator mark 116 of third member 88. Third member 88 may be positioned with respect to second member 86 in correspondence with a pre-determined set of coordinate values by aligning reference indicator mark 116 with a corresponding one of coordinate indicator marks 110, in a manner to be described in detail later.

[0039] In addition, at least one adjustment member 118, is provided which is operatively associated with third member 88 and is adjustably positionable with respect to a surface 120 of third member 88. Adjustment member 118 controls the tilt of mounting member 66 with respect to surface 120 of third member 88. In the embodiment shown, two adjustment members 118, 122 are provided in the form of screws extending from a surface of third member 88. In addition to the method shown for adjusting the tilt of mounting member 66, the present invention contemplates the use of any one of several known methods for providing one or more adjustable bearing surfaces projecting above surface 120 and configured for receiving a portion of mounting member 66 thereon. Adjustment member screws 118, 122 have rounded uppermost surfaces 124, 126, respectively, for insertion into complimentary cavities 72, 128 in mounting member 66, for positioning and securing mounting member 66 on adjustment member screws 118, 122.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 2, a locating member may be positioned along second axis E in operative association with second member 86 to more precisely position a forward portion of mounting member 66 along axis E, so as to facilitate rotation of mounting member 66 about axis E. In one embodiment, locating member comprises a screw 130 extending from a hole in surface 132 of second member 86 and rotatable about third axis E to adjust a height above surface 132 which screw 130 projects. In the embodiment shown, surface 120 of third member 88 is substantially flush with surface 132 of second member 86. Locating member screw 130 has a rounded uppermost surface 134 for insertion into a complimentary cavity 136 in mounting member 66, in a manner to be described in detail later.

[0041] As seen in FIG. 2, the hole from which locating member 130 projects is labeled “F” (for “front”). Similarly, holes from which adjustment members 118, 122 project are labeled “R” (for “patient's right”) and “L” (for “patient's left”), respectively. These labels are used to properly orient a model of the dental arch positioned upon mounting member 66, in a manner to be described in detail later.

[0042] Mounting member 66 is operatively associated with locating member 130 and adjustment members 118, 122 and adapted to receive maxillary matrix tray 20 thereon. In the presently described embodiment, mounting member 66 is associated with locating member 130 and adjustment members 118, 122 by means of a series of cavities 72, 128, 136 formed in positioning surface 70 of mounting member 66 adapted to receive rounded head portions of locating member 130 and adjustment members 118, 122 therein such that mounting member 66 will rest atop and be positionally secured to the rounded head portions of locating member 130 and adjustment members 118, 122.

[0043] In the present invention, mounting member surface 68 is designed to simulate the position and orientation of the maxillary occlusal plane of a given patient. By varying the amount by which locating member screw 130 projects above second member surface 132 and by varying the amounts by which adjustment member screws 118, 122 project above third member surface 120 according to a pre-determined set of coordinate values, a desired orientation may be imparted to mounting surface 68 and, thus, to a model of a dental arch mounted on mounting surface 68.

[0044] A method for orienting mounting member surface 68 so as to simulate the orientation of the maxillary occlusal plane of a dental patient will now be discussed.

[0045] To orient mounting surface 68 in the desired manner, each component of positioning apparatus 80 described above is positioned with respect to another component according to a set of coordinate values. These coordinate values represent the orientation of the maxillary occlusal plane of an individual patient and are therefore derived for each individual patient using measurements of portions of the patient's head in combination with interpretation of anterior (frontal), lateral (side) and submental vertex X-ray views of the patient's head with the patient having their teeth engaged in the maxillary matrix tray 20 discussed above. Measurements from the resulting x-rays portraying the radio opaque members are made with accommodations to the measurements based on the projection of the x-rays from the patient's head to the x-ray plate. When the components of positioning apparatus 80 are positioned according to the coordinate values, the orientation of mounting surface 68 will correspond to the orientation of the maxillary occlusal plane of the patient.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 2, in a first step, the position of second member 86 with respect to first member 84 is adjusted along axis C such that a pre-determined one of second member indicator marks 104 is aligned with reference mark 94 located on first member 84 so as to correspond to a first coordinate of the set of coordinates. After second member 86 has been positioned in the desired position, second member 86 may be locked in this position using locking member screw 98.

[0047] Next, the position of third member 88 with respect to second member 86 is adjusted within arcuate slot 106 such that a pre-determined one of second member indicator marks 110 is aligned with reference mark 116 located on third member 88 so as to correspond to a second coordinate of the set of coordinates. After third member 88 has been positioned in the desired position, third member 88 may be locked in this position using locking member screw 114.

[0048] In the next series of steps, the amounts by which adjustment member screws 118, 122 and locating member screw 130 project above surfaces 120 and 132, respectively, are adjusted by rotation of the screws in the appropriate direction. A counterclockwise rotation of the screws will increase the distance above surfaces 120, 132 which screws 118, 122 and 130 project, while a clockwise rotation will decrease the amount by which the screws project above surfaces 120 and 132.

[0049] FIGS. 7-11 illustrate a representative example of how adjustment member screws 118, 122 and locating member screw 130 may be positioned corresponding to respective coordinate values of the set of coordinates. FIG. 7 shows an indicator 200 adapted to measure a linear displacement of a portion of a probe 202 incorporated into the indicator. Indicator 200 is suspended above a mounting surface 204 on which positioning apparatus 80 is to be placed for measuring the heights above a pre-determined reference surface, or surfaces, which rounded-head portion 134 of locating member 130 and rounded-head portions 124, 126 of adjustment members 122, 118 project. Referring to FIG. 2, in the present embodiment the reference surface comprises surface 132 of second member 86, and the height of locating member 130 is measured with respect to surface 132 of second member 86. However, the height of locating member 130 may be measured with respect to another, alternative reference surface provided the method used to generate the coordinate values is adapted to account for the difference in vertical distance between surface 132 of second member 86 and the alternative reference surface.

[0050] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 8, locating member 130 is first positioned with respect to surface 132 so as to minimize the height above surface 132 which member 130 projects. In the embodiment shown, a flange of locating member screw 130 is in contact with surface 132. When member 130 projects a minimum height above surface 132, positioning apparatus 80 is then placed on mounting surface 204 such that first member 84 of the apparatus rests on mounting surface 204. As seen in FIG. 9, probe 202 attached to indicator 200 is then positioned in contact with reference surface 132 of second member 86. A reference value, comprising the value shown by the indicator display when probe 202 is in contact with surface 132, is then noted.

[0051] Next, as seen in FIGS. 10 and 11, probe 202 is positioned so as to rest atop rounded-head portion 134 of locating member 130. Then, with probe 202 in contact with rounded-head portion 134 of locating member 130, locating member 130 is positioned with respect to second member surface 132 to correspondingly position probe 202 such that the difference between the value shown by a display of indicator 200 and the reference value corresponds a fourth coordinate of the set of coordinates.

[0052] The above procedure may be repeated for positioning adjustment member 122 with respect to reference surface 120 of third member 88 in correspondence with a third coordinate value of the set of coordinates, and for positioning other adjustment member 118 (if any) with respect to reference surface 120 of third member 88 in correspondence with a fifth coordinate value of the set of coordinates.

[0053] When second member 86, third member 88, adjustment members 118, 122 and locating member 130 have all been positioned in correspondence with respective ones of the coordinate values, mounting member 66 is then positioned atop adjustment members 118, 122 and locating member 130 such that rounded head portions 126, 124 of adjustment member screws 118, 122 are received in cavities 72, 128 of mounting member 66. Similarly, rounded head portion 134 of locating member 130 is received in cavity 136 of mounting member 66.

[0054] A method for positioning a model of a maxillary dental arch within a dental articulator to simulate the position of the dental arch in the skull of a patient will now be discussed.

[0055]FIG. 16 shows a dental articulator assembly, generally designated 250, designed to accurately reproduce the various movements of a patient's lower jaw with respect to the temporomandibular joint, thus allowing for the replication of the patient's teeth in the form of a dental cast. An articulator assembly of the type described below is disclosed in Alpern et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,320,528, which is incorporated by reference herein.

[0056] Articulator assembly 250 includes a base portion 252 and an articulator portion 254 detachably mounted to base portion 252 in a first orientation, articulator portion 254 including a first support member 256, a second support member 258, and joint means, generally designated 260, for simulating the mandibular condylar joint and for mounting first support member 256 to second support member 258 such that first support member 256 is adjustably spaced apart from second support member 258. The '528 patent describes in detail the structure of the articulator means used for adjusting the separation distance between second support member 258 and first support member 256, and for securing the first and second support members in a desired orientation with respect to each other.

[0057] Prior to positioning a dental arch model in articulator portion 254, a separation distance H between first support member 256 and second support member 258 is set to a pre-determined value. In one embodiment, a spacer block 500 is positioned to abut second support member 258 first support member 256 is then positioned and secured so as to abut a lower surface of spacer block 500, and rear adjustment rods 501, 502 are locked in position, in a manner described in Alpern et al. '528, to maintain a minimum spacing of H between the first and second support members. Spacer block 500 is formed with at least one dimension corresponding to a desired pre-determined spacing H to be maintained between first and second support members 256, 258.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 16, when pre-determined spacing H between first support member 256 and second support member 258 has been provided, first support member 256 is urged downward to enable removal of spacer block 500 from articulator portion 254. As described in detail in Alpern et al. '528, coil springs (not shown) connecting first and second support members 256 and 258, respectively, and rear lateral adjustment rods 501, 502 act to maintain the spatial relationship between first support member 256 and second support member 258 during manipulation of first support member 256.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 17, the positioning and securing of a dental arch model within articulator assembly 250 will now be discussed. The method for positioning the model of a dental arch within the articulator employs positioning device 20 previously described. Prior to securing positioning apparatus 20 to first support member 256, the positioning apparatus is configured using a set of pre-determined coordinate values as previously described to impart an orientation to mounting member 66 corresponding to the orientation of the maxillary occlusal plane of a patient.

[0060] In the embodiment described, the dental arch model is a model of the maxillary arch of the patient. Maxillary arch model 300 is placed in tray 20 with the “teeth side” of the model resting in receptacle 40 and oriented such that the right side of the model (i.e., the portion of the model representing the right side of the patient's dental arch) is proximate the hole in third member labeled “R”. A portion of arch model 300 is configured to produce an interference fit with wall 46 of tray 20 when arch model 300 is positioned within tray 20, thereby retaining arch model 300 within tray 20.

[0061] To secure the dental arch model to the articulator, first member 84 of positioning apparatus 80 is secured to first support member 256 of articulator portion 254 using a mounting knob 100 as described in the '528 patent, thereby securing positioning apparatus 80 to first support member 256. Mounting member 66 is then positioned atop uppermost surfaces of locating member 130 and adjustment members 118, 122 as previously described. Maxillary matrix tray 20, including maxillary arch model 300 received in tray receptacle 40, is then secured atop mounting member 66. Tray 20 may be secured atop mounting member 66 by, for example, application of an adhesive.

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 14-17, an engagement member 262 is provided for attachment to second support member 258 of articulator portion 254. Engagement member 262 has a pair of slots 400 extending along a length of the member with undercuts 402 formed along either side of the slot. After positioning tray 20 and maxillary arch model 300 atop mounting member 66, engagement member 262 is secured to second support member 258 using, for example, a mounting knob 100 as described in the '528 patent.

[0063] An adhesive material, generally designated 270, is provided which has both a flowable state and a non-flowable state within a temperature range centered about room temperature (approximately 75 degrees F.). Adhesive material 270 in its flowable state is then applied to an uppermost surface of maxillary arch model 300 and to a lowermost surface of engagement member 262 in such a manner and quantity that adhesive 270 connects engagement member 262 with maxillary arch model 300. As a result, when adhesive 270 hardens to a non-flowable state, the adhesive and maxillary arch model to which it adheres will be secured to engagement member 262 (FIG. 18).

[0064] Upon securing maxillary arch model 300 to articulator portion 254, it may be desired to secure a model of the mandibular arch of the patient to the articulator portion as well. The following procedure may be used to secure a model of the mandibular arch to articulator portion 254.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 19, to secure a mandibular arch model (generally designated 292) to articulator portion 254, a second engagement member 263 is provided similar in configuration to engagement member 262 previously described. In addition, an impression 282 of the patient's bite registration is provided having a first portion 284 which conforms to a bite surface of maxillary arch model 300 and a second portion 288 which conforms to a bite surface of mandibular arch model 292. First support member 256 is then urged downward to enable removal of positioning apparatus 80. Articulator portion 254 is then detached from base portion 252 and inverted as shown in FIG. 19. Articulator portion 254 is then mounted to base portion 252 in the inverted orientation. Second engagement member 263 is then secured to first support member 256 using, for example, a mounting knob 100, as described in the '528 patent. First portion 284 of bite registration impression 282 is then positioned along the bite surface of maxillary arch model 300 that conforms to first portion 286 of impression 282.

[0066] Next, a surface of mandibular arch model 292 is positioned along the portion 288 of bite registration impression 282 that conforms to this surface of mandibular arch model 292. Adhesive material 270 in the flowable state is then applied to a lowermost surface of second engagement member 263 and to an uppermost surface of mandibular arch model 292 in such a manner and quantity that adhesive 270 connects second engagement member 263 with mandibular arch model 292. As a result, when adhesive 270 hardens to a non-flowable state, the adhesive and mandibular arch model to which it adheres will be secured to second engagement member 262.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 20, articulator portion 254 is then detached from base portion 252 and inverted again, thus returning articulator portion 254 to its original orientation. Portion 254 is then secured on base portion 252 in this original orientation. In the resulting arrangement, maxillary arch model 300 is suspended above mandibular arch model 292 with both of arch models 292, 300 secured in articulator portion 254 so as to simulate the bite structure of the patient.

[0068] It should be understood that the preceding is merely a detailed description of various embodiments of this invention and that numerous changes to the disclosed embodiments can be made in accordance with the disclosure herein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. The preceding description, therefore, is not meant to limit the scope of the invention. Rather, the scope of the invention is to be determined only by the appended claims and their equivalents. 

1. An apparatus for registering an impression of a maxillary dental arch comprising: a base defining a generally U-shaped portion for receiving a dental arch of a patient in which the U-shaped portion includes two spaced-apart wing portions; and at least three radio-opaque members secured to the base, at least two of the radio-opaque members being spaced apart at a predetermined distance from one another.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the base has an axis of symmetry.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein a first one of the at least three radio-opaque members is secured to and positioned on the base approximately along the axis of symmetry and a second one of the at least three radio-opaque members is secured to and positioned within one of the wing portions and spaced apart from the axis of symmetry.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein the third radio-opaque member is positioned in a second one of the wing portions and is spaced apart from the axis of symmetry on an opposite side of the axis from the second one of the radio-opaque members.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the second and third radio-opaque members are spaced a substantially equal distance from the axis of symmetry.
 6. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the second and third radio-opaque members are spaced a substantially equal distance from the first radio-opaque member.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the base includes a tongue portion projecting from the U-shaped portion opposite a cavity separating the two wing portions.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the base has a first face defining a first plane and a second face opposite the first face defining a second plane, and at least one of the radio-opaque members projects from a plane defined by a corresponding face of the base.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein the at least one radio-opaque member projects from the first plane.
 10. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein the at least one radio-opaque member projects from the second plane.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the base is formed from a plastic material and at least one of the radio-opaque members is molded into the base.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the base is formed from a plastic material and at least one of the radio-opaque members is press-fit into the base.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein at least one of the radio-opaque members is secured to the base using an adhesive.
 14. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein at least one of the radio-opaque members is metallic.
 15. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein at least one of the radio-opaque members is generally spherical.
 16. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein a first one of the at least three radio-opaque members has a first shape and a second one of the radio-opaque members has a second shape different from the first shape.
 17. An apparatus comprising: a base defining a generally U-shaped portion for receiving a dental arch of a patient including two spaced-apart wing portions; and a radio-opaque member associated with the base and positioned closer to one wing portion than to the other wing portion.
 18. The apparatus of claim 17 includes an extension member which extends between and connects the two spaced-apart wing portions.
 19. The apparatus of claim 18 in which the radio-opaque member is secured to the extension.
 20. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein the extension member has a first face defining a first plane and a second face opposite the first face defining a second plane, and the radio-opaque member projects from a plane defined by a corresponding face of the connecting portion.
 21. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the radio-opaque member projects from the first plane.
 22. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the radio-opaque member projects from the second plane.
 23. The apparatus of claim 17 wherein the extension is integral with the base.
 24. The apparatus of claim 17 wherein the extension is formed from a plastic material and the radio-opaque member is molded into the extension.
 25. The apparatus of claim 17 wherein the extension is formed from a plastic material and the radio-opaque member is press-fit into the extension.
 26. The apparatus of claim 17 wherein the radio-opaque member is secured to the extension using an adhesive.
 27. The apparatus of claim 17 wherein the radio-opaque member is metallic.
 28. The apparatus of claim 17 wherein the radio-opaque member is generally spherical.
 29. A apparatus for receiving a representation of a dental arch comprising a substantially planar base having a first face defining a first plane, a second face defining a second plane, and means for securing the apparatus to a mounting surface.
 30. The apparatus of claim 29 wherein the means for securing comprises a projection extending from a plane defined by a corresponding face of the base.
 31. The apparatus of claim 30 wherein the projection extends from the second plane.
 32. The apparatus of claim 30 wherein the projection is formed by a radio-opaque member secured to the base.
 33. The apparatus of claim 32 wherein the base is formed form a plastic material and the radio-opaque member is molded into the base.
 34. The apparatus of claim 32 wherein the radio-opaque member is secured to the base at a pre-determined distance from a portion of the projection.
 35. The apparatus of claim 30 further comprising a radio-opaque member secured to the base opposite the projection.
 36. The apparatus of claim 30 wherein the base is formed from a plastic material and the projection is molded into the base.
 37. The apparatus of claim 30 wherein the projection is formed integral with the base.
 38. The apparatus of claim 29 wherein the means for securing comprises a cavity extending into a plane defined by a face of the base for receiving a complimentary projection therein.
 39. The apparatus of claim 38 further comprising a radio-opaque member secured to the base opposite the cavity.
 40. The apparatus of claim 38 wherein the radio-opaque member is secured to the base at a pre-determined distance from a portion of the cavity.
 41. An apparatus for positioning a model of a dental arch within a dental articulator to simulate the position of the dental arch in a skull, comprising: a member positionable along a first axis and rotatable about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis; at least one adjustment member operatively associated with the member and adjustably positionable with respect to a surface of the member; and a mounting member operatively associated with the at least one adjustment member and adapted to receive at least a portion of the dental arch model thereon.
 42. An apparatus for positioning a model of a dental arch within a dental articulator to simulate the position of the dental arch in a skull, comprising: a first member a second member operatively associated with the first member and positionable along a first axis; a third member operatively associated with the second member and positionable about a second axis generally perpendicular to the first axis; at least one adjustment member operatively associated with the third member and adjustably positionable with respect to a surface of the third member; and a mounting member operatively associated with the at least one adjustment member and adapted to receive at least a portion of the dental arch model thereon.
 43. The apparatus of claim 42 wherein the third member has a generally arcuate configuration and the second member includes a complementary arcuate slot for receiving the third member in a sliding relationship therein.
 44. The apparatus of claim 42 further comprising a locating member positioned along the second axis.
 45. The apparatus of claim 42 wherein the locating member comprises a screw extending from a surface of the second member.
 46. The apparatus of claim 45 wherein the mounting member includes a cavity adapted for receiving a portion of the screw therein.
 47. The apparatus of claim 44 wherein the locating member is adjustably positionable with respect to the second member.
 48. The apparatus of claim 42 wherein the second member is slidingly mounted on the first member.
 49. The apparatus of claim 42 wherein the third member is slidingly mounted on the second member.
 50. The apparatus of claim 42 further comprising a locking member adapted to lock the third member and the second member in a pre-determined relationship.
 51. The apparatus of claim 50 further comprising another locking member adapted to lock the second member and the first member in a pre-determined relationship.
 52. The apparatus of claim 42 including two adjustment members.
 53. The apparatus of claim 52 wherein the two adjustment members comprise screws extending from the surface of the third member.
 54. The apparatus of claim 53 wherein the mounting member includes two cavities adapted for receiving portions of respective ones of the screws therein.
 55. The apparatus of claim 42 wherein a plurality of indicator marks are provided along a surface of the first member.
 56. The apparatus of claim 55 wherein the indicator marks are substantially evenly-spaced.
 57. The apparatus of claim 42 wherein a plurality of indicator marks are provided along a surface of the second member.
 58. The apparatus of claim 57 wherein the indicator marks are substantially evenly-spaced.
 59. The apparatus of claim 57 wherein another plurality of indicator marks are provided along another surface of the second member.
 60. The apparatus of claim 59 wherein the indicator marks are substantially evenly-spaced.
 61. The apparatus of claim 42 wherein a reference indicator mark is provided on a surface of the first member.
 62. The apparatus of claim 42 wherein a reference indicator mark is provided on a surface of the third member.
 63. A method for configuring the apparatus of claim 42 to impart, to a model of a dental arch when the model is positioned thereon, an orientation corresponding to a pre-determined set of coordinates, comprising the steps of: positioning the second member in a position with respect to the first member corresponding to a first coordinate of the set of coordinates; positioning the third member in a position with respect to the second member corresponding to a second coordinate of the set of coordinates; positioning the at least one adjustment member with respect to the third member in a position corresponding to a third coordinate of the set of coordinates; and positioning the mounting member so as to abut an uppermost surface of the at least one adjustment member.
 64. The method of claim 63 further comprising the steps of providing a locating member positioned along the second axis; positioning the locating member with respect to the second member in a position corresponding to a fourth coordinate of the set of coordinates; and positioning the mounting member so as to abut an uppermost surface of the locating member.
 65. The method of claim 63 further comprising the step of positioning another adjustment member with respect to the third member in a position corresponding to a fifth coordinate of the set of coordinates.
 66. The method of claim 64 wherein the step of positioning the locating member with respect to the second member further comprises the steps of: providing an apparatus having a mounting surface and an indicator adapted to measure a linear displacement of a portion of a probe operatively associated with the indicator; positioning the apparatus on the mounting surface such that the first member of the apparatus rests on the mounting surface; positioning the portion of the probe so as to rest on a surface of the second member; with the portion of the probe resting on the surface of the second member, assigning a value shown by the indicator as a reference value; positioning the portion of the probe so as to rest on the uppermost surface of the locating member; with the portion of the probe resting on the uppermost surface of the locating member, assigning a value shown by the indicator as a locating member position value; and with the portion of the probe resting on the uppermost surface of the locating member, positioning the locating member with respect to the second member to correspondingly position the portion of the probe such that a difference between the locating member position value and the reference value corresponds to the fourth coordinate of the set of coordinates.
 67. The method of claim 63 wherein the step of positioning the at least one adjustment member with respect to the third member further comprises the steps of: providing a apparatus having a mounting surface and an indicator adapted to measure a linear displacement of a portion of a probe operatively associated with the indicator; positioning the apparatus on the mounting surface such that the first member of the apparatus rests on the mounting surface; positioning the portion of the probe so as to rest on a surface of the third member; with the portion of the probe resting on the surface of the third member, assigning a value shown by the indicator as a reference value; positioning the portion of the probe so as to rest on the uppermost surface of the first adjustment member; with the portion of the probe resting on the uppermost surface of the adjustment member, assigning a value shown by the indicator as an adjustment member position value; and with the portion of the probe resting on the uppermost surface of the adjustment member, positioning the adjustment member with respect to the third member to correspondingly position the portion of the probe such that a difference between the adjustment member position value and the reference value corresponds to the fourth coordinate of the set of coordinates.
 68. The method of claim 67 wherein the step of positioning another adjustment member with respect to the third member further comprises the steps of: positioning the portion of the probe so as to rest on a surface of the third member; with the portion of the probe resting on the surface of the third member, assigning a value shown by the indicator as a reference value; positioning the portion of the probe so as to rest on the uppermost surface of the other adjustment member; with the portion of the probe resting on the uppermost surface of the adjustment member, assigning a value shown by the indicator as another adjustment member position value; and with the portion of the probe resting on the uppermost surface of the other adjustment member, positioning the other adjustment member with respect to the third member to correspondingly position the portion of the probe such that a difference between the other adjustment member position value and the reference value corresponds to the fifth coordinate of the set of coordinates.
 69. The method of claim 63 further comprising the step of locking the second member in the position with respect to the first member corresponding to the first coordinate of the set of coordinates.
 70. The method of claim 63 further comprising the step of locking the third member in the position with respect to the second member corresponding to the third coordinate of the set of coordinates.
 71. A method for orienting a planar surface so as to simulate the orientation of a maxillary occlusal plane of a dental patient comprising: providing an apparatus for receiving a model of a dental arch, the apparatus including a first member having a mounting surface, a second member operatively associated with the first member and positionable along a first axis, a third member operatively associated with the second member and positionable about a second axis generally perpendicular to the first axis, at least one adjustment member operatively associated with the third member and adjustably positionable with respect to a reference surface, and a mounting member operatively associated with the at least one adjustment members and incorporating the planar surface; positioning the at least one adjustment member in a position defined by a pre-determined set of coordinate values representing the orientation of the maxillary occlusal plane of the patient; and positioning the mounting member on the at least one adjustment member, thereby positioning the mounting member planar surface in the orientation of the maxillary occlusal plane of the patient.
 72. The method of claim 71 wherein the step of providing an apparatus for receiving a model of a dental arch further comprises the step of providing an apparatus for receiving a model of the maxillary arch of the patient.
 73. The method of claim 71 further comprising the steps of providing a locating member operatively associated with the second member and adjustably positionable with respect to a second reference surface; and positioning the locating member with respect to the second reference surface in a position defined by a fourth coordinate of the pre-determined set of coordinate values.
 74. The method of claim 73 further comprising the step of positioning the mounting member on the locating member and the adjustment member previously positioned in correspondence with the pre-determined set of coordinate values, thereby positioning the mounting member planar surface in the orientation of the maxillary occlusal plane of the patient.
 75. The method of claim 71 further comprising the step of positioning another adjustment member with respect to the first reference surface in a position defined by a fifth coordinate of the pre-determined set of coordinate values.
 76. The method of claim 75 further comprising the step of positioning the mounting member on the locating member and the adjustment members previously positioned in correspondence with the pre-determined set of coordinate values, thereby positioning the mounting member planar surface in the orientation of the maxillary occlusal plane of the patient.
 77. The method of claim 71 wherein the first reference surface is a surface of the third member.
 78. The method of claim 71 wherein the first reference surface is a substantially planar surface upon which the apparatus for receiving the model is positioned.
 79. The method of claim 71 wherein: the step of providing a first member further comprises the step of providing a reference indicator mark on a surface of the first member; the step of providing a second member further comprises the step of providing a plurality of graduated indicator marks on a surface of the second member; and the step of moving the second member with respect to the first member to a position defined by a first coordinate of a pre-determined set of coordinate values further comprises the step of moving the second member with respect to the first member so as to align the first reference indicator mark with a pre-determined one of the plurality of second member graduated indicator marks in correspondence with the first coordinate of the pre-determined set of coordinate values.
 80. The method of claim 71 wherein: the step of providing a third member operatively associated with the second member further comprises the step of providing a reference indicator mark on a surface of the third member; the step of providing a second member further comprises the step of providing a plurality of graduated indicator marks on a surface of the second member; and the step of moving the third member with respect to the second member about the second axis to a position defined by a second coordinate of the pre-determined set of coordinate values further comprises the step of moving the third member with respect to the second member so as to align the third member reference indicator mark with a pre-determined one of the plurality of second member graduated indicator marks in correspondence with the second coordinate of the pre-determined set of coordinate values.
 81. The method of claim 73 wherein the step of positioning the locating member with respect to the reference surface further comprises the steps of: providing means for measuring a position of the locating member with respect to the second reference surface; assigning a reference value to an output of the measuring means corresponding to a position of the reference surface; and positioning the locating member such that the difference between the reference value and the output of the measuring means corresponding to the position of the locating member corresponds with the fourth coordinate of the pre-determined set of coordinate values.
 82. The method of claim 71 wherein the step of positioning the at least one adjustment member with respect to the first reference surface further comprises the steps of: providing means for measuring a position of the at least one adjustment member with respect to the first reference surface; assigning a reference value to an output of the measuring means corresponding to a position of the first reference surface; and positioning the at least one adjustment member such that the difference between the reference value and the output of the measuring means corresponding to the position of the adjustment member corresponds with the third coordinate of the pre-determined set of coordinate values.
 83. The method of claim 75 wherein the step of positioning another adjustment member with respect to the first reference surface further comprises the steps of: providing means for measuring a position of the other adjustment member with respect to the first reference surface; assigning a reference value to an output of the measuring means corresponding to a position of the first reference surface; and positioning the other adjustment member such that the difference between the reference value and the output of the measuring means corresponding to the position of the other adjustment member corresponds with the fifth coordinate of the pre-determined set of coordinate values.
 84. A method for positioning a model of a dental arch within a dental articulator to simulate the orientation of the dental arch in the skull of a patient, comprising the steps of: providing a dental articulator assembly including a base portion and an articulator portion detachably mounted to the base portion in a first orientation, the articulator portion including a first support member, a second support member, and joint means for simulating the mandibular condylar joint and for mounting the first support member to the second support member such that the first support member is adjustably spaced apart from the second support member; providing an apparatus for receiving the dental arch model, the apparatus including a first member for attachment to a portion of the articulator, a mounting member for coupling to the first member, and means for adjustably coupling the mounting member to the first member; adjusting the coupling means in correspondence with a pre-determined set of coordinate values representing the orientation of the maxillary occlusal plane of a patient; securing the first member to the first support member; coupling the mounting member to the first member; and mounting the dental arch model on the mounting member.
 85. The method of claim 84 wherein the step of mounting the dental arch model on the mounting member comprises the steps of: providing a model-receiving tray fixedly positionable on a surface of the mounting member; securing the model-receiving tray on the mounting member; and positioning the dental arch model in the model-receiving tray.
 86. The method of claim 84 further comprising the steps of: securing the first support member in a pre-determined position with respect to the second support member; providing an engagement member for attachment to a portion of the articulator; securing the engagement member to the second support member; and securing the engagement member to a surface of the dental arch model such movement of the engagement member produces a corresponding movement of the dental arch model.
 87. The method of claim 86 wherein the step of securing the engagement member to a surface of the dental arch model comprises the steps of: providing an adhesive material having a flowable state and a non-flowable state; applying the adhesive material in the flowable state to a surface of the engagement member such that the adhesive material connects the dental arch model with the engagement member; and processing the adhesive material to achieve the non-flowable state of the adhesive material, thereby securing the dental arch model to the engagement member.
 88. The method of claim 84 wherein the means for adjustably coupling the mounting member to the first member is located on the first member.
 89. The method of claim 87 further comprising, prior to the step of processing the adhesive material, the step of applying adhesive material in a flowable state to a surface of the second dental arch model.
 90. The method of claim 84 wherein the dental arch model is a model of the maxillary arch of a patient.
 91. The method of claim 84 further comprising the step of positioning a model of a second dental arch in the dental articulator opposite the dental arch model.
 92. The method of claim 91 wherein the step of positioning comprises the steps of: providing an impression of a patient's bite registration having a first portion which conforms to a side of the dental arch model and a second portion which conforms to a side of the second dental arch model; detaching the articulator portion from the base portion; mounting the articulator portion on the base portion in a second orientation; positioning the first portion of the bite registration impression along a side of the dental arch model that conforms to the first portion of the impression; and positioning a side of the second dental arch model along the portion of the bite registration impression that conforms to the surface of the second dental arch model.
 93. The method of claim 92 further comprising the steps of: providing a second engagement member for attachment to a portion of the articulator; securing the second engagement member to the first support member applying adhesive material in a flowable state to a surface of the second engagement member such that the adhesive material connects the second dental arch model with the second engagement member; and processing the molding material to achieve the non-flowable state of the molding material, thereby securing the second dental arch model to the second engagement member.
 94. The method of claim 93 further comprising, prior to the step of processing the adhesive material, the step of applying adhesive material in a flowable state to a surface of the second dental arch model.
 95. The method of claim 91 wherein the second dental arch model is a model of a mandibular arch of the patient.
 96. The method of claim 93 further comprising, prior to the step of securing the second engagement member to the first support member, the step of detaching the model-receiving apparatus from the first support member. 